How to Make the Perfect Bone Broth

Bone broth
Photo by Alex Bayev on Pexels

Bone broth, a nourishing elixir rich in nutrients and savory flavors, has been a staple in traditional cuisines worldwide for centuries. It’s warm and comforting, but also has numerous health benefits. Making bone broth at home is surprisingly simple, and the result is so much better than anything you can buy off the shelf. Let’s jump in. 

Ingredients

  • 2-3 pounds of mixed bones (beef, chicken, or turkey)
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 1 medium onion
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 bay leaf
  • A few sprigs of fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
  • Water to cover
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. For the richest bone broth, begin by roasting bones at 400°F for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and color. 
  2. Transfer these to a stockpot or slow cooker, adding carrots, celery, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, bay leaf, parsley, and peppercorns. The vinegar is key for nutrient extraction. 
  3. Cover with water and boil, then simmer (12-24 hours for chicken, up to 48 for beef) to extract collagen and minerals, enriching flavor. 
  4. Cool, strain, and refrigerate the broth. Remove any solidified fat from the top once chilled and that’s it. Your nourishing homemade broth is now ready for sipping or as a flavorful base for various dishes!